Sri Lanka - A journey of Luxury, Nature and Unforgettable Moments

Sri Lanka: A Journey Beyond Expectations Sri Lanka had been on my travel Wishlist for a while – and when I finally made the trip, it turned out to be everything I wanted and more. An unforgettable journey through the stunning landscape, rich in culture and luxurious retreats of Sri Lanka. Travelling with my husband, we explored this beautiful island with the help of a wonderful private driver who made every leg of the trip seamless, stress-free, and thoroughly enjoyable. Galle – Where It All Began We landed in Sri Lanka via direct flights with SriLankan Airlines. Our first night was spent in Galle staying at the Taru Villas. Nestled within the historic Galle Fort, the villa offered the perfect mix of colonial charm and modern comfort. The location is idea for exploring the cobbled street, boutique shops and vibrant cafes of the fort. Wild Coast Tented Lodge – A Safari Like No Other Our next destination was the Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala – and it's hard to put into words just how magical this place is. Nestled between jungle and beach on the edge of Yala National Park, this luxurious safari camp is a must-visit. Waking up to the sounds of nature, sipping coffee before early game drives, and dining under the stars… it was the kind of immersive experience that stays with you long after you leave. We spotted elephants, leopards, and countless bird species – a true wildlife lover’s dream. Ceylon Tea Trails – Colonial Elegance in the Hill Country From wild to refined, we journeyed into the central highlands to stay at the renowned Ceylon Tea Trails. Here, we found ourselves in a beautiful planter’s bungalow set amidst emerald-green tea fields. As it turns out, we even stayed in the same room as Rob Rinder from Beyond the Lobby! The blend of history, luxury, and old-world charm was captivating with full butler service, gourmet dining and complete peace and quiet. Long walks through the plantations, afternoon tea overlooking the hills, and cozy evenings by the fire made this leg of the trip particularly special. This is the kind of place that you never want to leave. Kandy – A Cultural Pause Next came an overnight stay in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. This was reached by train allowing us to see the countryside and beautiful waterfalls. Kandy is the cultural heart of Sri Lanka with lots of amazing sights to see. Taru Villas – Maia, Habarana Next, we travelled north to Habarana where we stayed at the Taru Villa, this was a beautiful base for exploring the ancient cities and cultural triangle. The villas were stylish, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. We used this base to visit the Minneriya National Park where we were treated to the sight of hundreds of elephants in their natural habitat. Uga Jungle Beach – Our Tropical Hideaway The final chapter of our journey was spent at Uga Jungle Beach, where we stayed for five blissful days. Tucked between jungle and sea, this tranquil resort was a haven of relaxation. Morning swims, long beach walks, spa treatments, and simply doing nothing – it was everything we hoped for in the last leg of the trip. Taking Flight: A Unique Farewell Our final journey was a scenic light aircraft flight back to Colombo – an unforgettable way to end our adventure. We spent our last night at The Maniumpathy, a beautifully restored boutique hotel. With its grand colonial charm and intimate feel, it was the perfect place to reflect on everything we’d experienced. Final Thoughts Sri Lanka stole our hearts – a country of contrasts, culture, and incredible natural beauty. Whether it was the wildlife of Yala, the rolling tea hills, or the rhythm of the coast, every moment felt curated yet wildly authentic. If you’re dreaming of a holiday that combines adventure, relaxation, luxury, and cultural richness then Sri Lanka is the place for you. I can’t recommend it highly enough.